The prosecutor in the trial over the death of 11-year-old Marios Souloukos has called for the conviction of the main defendant, describing the case as a tragedy that reflects the dangers of reckless gunfire in the community.
Marios was killed by a stray bullet during a school celebration in Menidi, an area in the wider Athens region, almost 10 years ago. The case is being heard by a Mixed Jury Court, with the prosecutor presenting his arguments regarding the responsibility of the accused.
During his statement, prosecutor Antonis Kasapis strongly criticized the practice of firing guns into the air during celebrations, saying that such behavior continues to put lives at risk despite the fatal consequences of the case.
He described the incident as an “unspeakable tragedy” affecting not only the child’s family but society as a whole, questioning how a community can accept children being killed during a school event in peacetime.
Prosecutor rejects mitigating circumstances
The prosecutor argued against granting any mitigating factors to the main defendant, stating that his behavior did not show genuine remorse.
He also referred to witness statements indicating that similar incidents involving gunfire continue to occur in the area. According to the prosecutor, the use of weapons for celebration or display is a sign of deeper social problems and must eventually stop.
The prosecutor also expressed surprise that nearly a decade had passed before the case reached its final judicial stage.
Evidence presented over shooting during school event
Referring to the events of the day Marios died, the prosecutor described the panic that spread during the school celebration when the child suddenly collapsed in the schoolyard.
He said the atmosphere changed instantly from a moment of celebration to chaos, with people initially unaware of what had happened. A post-mortem examination later revealed that the 11-year-old had been struck in the head by a bullet.
According to the prosecution, celebrations were taking place at nearby homes, involving loud music, alcohol and gunshots fired into the air. The existence of gunfire was confirmed through witness accounts, although there was no clear identification of every person who fired a weapon.
The prosecutor also pointed to evidence collected during the investigation, including bullets found on rooftops, parts of the school building and in the child’s head. He also referred to shell casings previously discovered outside the main defendant’s home.
Second defendant’s case also examined
Regarding the second defendant, the prosecutor referred to his own admission that he fired two shots. The man reportedly claimed that he knew his shots could not cause a death.
The prosecutor assessed that the incident may legally fall under an ineffective attempt, explaining that changes in the relevant legal framework between 2019 and 2021 could affect the court’s decision if it reaches the same legal conclusion.
The trial continues with closing arguments from the defense lawyers.
